Elsabe "Ellie" C. Friedrichsen

Elsabe “Ellie” Charlotte Friedrichsen, passed away. on April 27, 2025, in the care of St. Peter’s Hospice, in Albany.

She was born on April 29, 1942, in Janneby, Germany, to Christian Friedrich Friedrichsen and Erika Katharine Emma Freitag Friedrichsen, the youngest of eight children.

At age 21, she boarded a boat alone and sailed to a new life in the United States, initially living in Columbia County, where she learned English. Ellie became a naturalized citizen on September 17, 1973. She worked at Key Bank until her retirement as Vice President at age 55.

Ellie loved to play golf, and was looking forward to playing in a league again this summer. She kept in touch with the many friends she made over the years golfing and going out to eat. She enjoyed traveling throughout the U.S. and Europe, but the best part for Ellie was always returning home.

She is survived by her partner of 23 years, Mabel Pruden; Mabel’s children, Jennifer Pruden (Jay Hui) and David Pruden (Vincent Jen); grandchildren, Cerridwyn “Crow” Preuss and Adaline Colligan; sister, Helga Friedrichsen Hansen (Hans-Peter) of Germany; her cat, Buddy; along with many dear friends, new and old, especially Bill Bloodgood.

At Ellie’s request, no service will be held.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to the doctors and nurses at St. Peter’s Hospital and Hospice for their compassionate care and kindness.

Contributions can be made in Ellie’s name to the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society, 3 Oakland Ave., Menands, N.Y. 12204, or to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tenn. 38105.